Johnson Controls in collaboration with Toshiba has introduced their new 12-volt lithium titanate battery stop-start system.

Engine start-stop systems are used to reduce fuel consumption, and the most advanced of those systems require a stouter battery.

The battery system integrates into a car's 12-Volt electrical system as part of a new start-stop setup and saves up to 15 percent of the fuel.

Battery chemistry

The lithium titanate chemistry is effective at quickly recharging, works well in a wide range of temperatures and can be easily integrated into a vehicle’s 12-volt electrical system, explained Johnson Controls. Toshiba, with its SCiB technology, is said to be the established market leader for lithium titanate.

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“Toshiba is pleased to work with Johnson Controls to supply SCiB cells for this application,” said Shun Egusa, general manager of Toshiba’s automotive business. “The opportunity to support global automakers with their goal of improving vehicle efficiency is an important part of our strategy and vision.”

How does it work?

The start-stop system has two batteries: a 12-volt Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) or Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB), which will start the engine and supply power to accessories such as lights, navigation systems and radios; the new 12-volt lithium titanate battery will primarily accept and store regenerative braking energy during vehicle deceleration, enabling greater power and load management capabilities.

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Any analogues?

Porsche has offered an optional 12-Volt lithium-ion starter battery for a few years now, for the weight reduction over conventional lead-acid equivalents, but it carries a four-figure price and has not been widely adopted.

This category is expected to grow as carmakers look to squeeze better fuel efficiency out of more vehicles, without the added cost and change in driving dynamics that come with a full hybrid powertrain.

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The Chevrolet Malibu already features a system that using two 12-volt batteries - allows it to equal the fuel economy of the previous hybrid Malibu Eco.